Nine Verses for Worrying Kids

Then there’s the description of armor in Ephesians 6. Paul writes about the different pieces available to the Christian – all defensive equipment with the exception of the sword. Ephesians 6:17: Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. (Ephesians 6:17) The sword (Word of God) is the one piece of the armor used in offense.

If the Bible wasn’t alive and usable today, we wouldn’t have a functioning weapon. A sword sitting on a shelf, stuck in a sheath or being so dull it doesn’t cut won’t pass the test.

Likewise, with the sword of the Spirit. If our kids don’t USE God’s Word or even KNOW God’s Word, the sword won’t be effective.

For kids to USE the Word of God, they must KNOW the Word of God.

Like with worrying.

The thing is – most kids (like any of us) have a lot of worrying going on in their lives.

So let’s help them.

Here are nine verses for situations in a child’s life that might cause worry.

We can encourage them to memorize the verse/verses that most directly apply to a situation they’re facing.

We can study (as a family or class) what the verses mean so kids understand the concept.

We can print the verses on a small card for them to take with them – in their pocket, purse or backpack. That way they can look at the verse when they need it.

________________________

Verses That Can Help Me …

When I’m scared of a test or starting a new school year. When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. (Psalm 56:3)

When problems at home make me sad. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

When my friend gets mad at me. Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil. (Psalm 37:8)

When another kid is being mean to me. Do not say, “I will repay evil”; wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you. (Proverbs 20:22)

When kids tease me because I won’t do something that is wrong. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)

When your child feels unloved. See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God … (1 John 3:1)

When I can’t keep up with everything: homework, sports, my piano lessons. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. (John 14:27)

When I don’t make the team or get chosen for the play and I’m angry because my friends do. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. (James 3:16-17)

When I do something stupid and everyone laughs at me. See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. (I Thessalonians 5:15)

If your personal child (or child in your ministry) is facing a situation not on this list, add a verse that addresses the circumstances